What is the role of the "arts" in political/social discourse? If any...

Curious what others think. I've produced two very political musicals locally ("Covidious" and "The Gator Conspiracy") with pretty good results at the Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston. Right now working on a third "The Stable Genius" which will open next May. But this time around we're finding some actors are warry of getting "too political" even with a satire/comedy. One even mentioned a concern for their personal safety.

My feeling is that political satire/humor not only belongs but is an essential part of a well-functioning democracy. When we feel threatened to speak out, we lose a lot more than a funny stage production.